Destroy Boll. Free Gum!

In what has to be one of the most bizarre publicity stunts in recent memory, the makers of Stride gum have vowed to give away a free pack of gum to every person who signs a petition to stop vile film director Uwe Boll from directing another movie.

Back in April, Boll promised he would stop making films if the petition scores a million signatures. The good folks over at Stop Uwe Boll are working to make that a reality. As of today, they have collected nearly 250,000 signatures.

Now Stride wants to encourage videogame fans (because so many of Boll's films are based on videogames) to join the petition. If the petition reaches the required 1 million signatures by May 14 at 5pm EDT, each signer will receive a digital coupon for a pack of gum.

"Since gamers are one of our most supportive groups, we've been looking for ways to return the favor," said Gary Osifchin, Stride North American Marketing Director in a published statement. "And what better way is there to get gamers' backs than by helping them rescue their cherished videogames from the clutches of Uwe Boll?"

If you're not familiar with Boll's work, be thankful. He makes some awful films. For some reason, he seems to be drawn to videogame adaptations. The three that have been released in the U.S. (House of the Dead, Bloodrayne and Alone in the Dark) have all received horrible reviews.

Boll's new film Postal -- also based on a videogame -- will be released on May 23, 2008.